SPECIALIST social care and support provider ubu have helped transform the life of a Darlington woman by enabling her to find rewarding voluntary work.

Gillian Thomas, 39, who lives in a support in town has Down’s syndrome and is a volunteer at the British Heart Foundation shop in Northgate.

Gillian has been supported by ubu. Its aim is to help people to live as independently as possible

Gillian, who enjoys dancing, singing and fancy dress, helps to sort the clothes donated to the shop, undertakes general cleaning and tidying duties and happily meets and greets customers.

Chris Hutchinson from ubu said: “ubu is all about helping vulnerable people in all aspects of their lives and enabling them to live a valuable life in their community.”

“We are so pleased that we have been able to support Gillian to find voluntary work, which she thoroughly enjoys. It has built up her confidence and given her a real sense of self-worth. However, it is sad that the response from so many businesses and organisations in the town was negative when we approached them to offer Gillian and other individuals a few hours paid work, even though we explained they are always accompanied and fully supported.

“There is so much satisfaction and enjoyment knowing we are enabling the people we support to achieve their goals and develop greater independence,” she added.